Synopsis

Returning home from the Korean war in 1954, the repressed photographer Sonny Burns (Jeremy Davies) strikes up an unlikely friendship with the confident and outgoing Gunner Casselman (Ben Affleck). Dominated by his religious fanatic of a mother, Sonny envies Gunner his relaxed home life and sexual experience. While Sonny tries to dump his long-term girlfriend, Buddy (Amy Locane), Gunner pursues Jewish art student Marty (Rachel Pilcher). Sonny's mother resents Gunner's influence, which culminates in Marty fixing up Sonny, who is desperate to lose his virginity, with her experienced college friend, Gale.